Karin embodies the essence of caring and compassion as a student nurse. Her dedication to the well-being of her clients is remarkable. Karin consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that her clients and their families receive the highest level of care and support. Her ability to connect with clients personally is extraordinary, creating a comforting and trusting experience for all clients under her care. Her kindness and empathy shine through even in the most challenging situations. Karin truly exemplifies the qualities of a compassionate and caring student nurse.

For example, Karin was caring for an elderly male client diagnosed with osteomyelitis of the right thumb and hand. This client had been admitted for five days and had undergone an extensive incision and drainage of the affected extremity. He was receiving IV antibiotics and was awaiting soft tissue and bone pathology. While performing her physical assessment, Karin noticed that the client’s left side was remarkably weaker than his right. The client was also experiencing mental status changes and was much more drowsy than usual.

There was no mention of this in the nurse’s report, and the client had no prior history of a stroke. Without prompting, Karin quickly notified the RN caring for the client. The RN came in to assess the client, and she agreed with the student’s findings. The physician was notified, and further neurological intervention was ordered for the client solely due to the student advocating for her client. As the day progressed, the news only got worse for Karin’s client and his family.

Unfortunately, his pathology report revealed that he had had large B‐cell lymphoma, not osteomyelitis (the lymphoma was mimicking the client’s osteomyelitis). Karin was present in the room when the diagnosis was given to the client and his daughter. Not surprisingly, the client’s daughter was distraught at this devastating diagnosis, and Karin comforted the daughter in her time of grief and need. As I watched from outside the door, Karin was holding the daughter’s hand and offering her support. In this moment, she intently listened as the daughter spoke and showed empathy and comfort. Her actions in this situation were a testament to her compassion and dedication to the nursing profession.